Savory Cottage Cheese Macaroni Pie
Indulge in a healthier twist on the classic baked macaroni and cheese with this Savory Cottage Cheese Macaroni Pie. This delightful dish is rich in flavor and boasts a delightful texture, thanks to the inclusion of creamy cottage cheese and the sharpness of grated Romano. The addition of fresh parsley brightens the dish, making it both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for a family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this savory pie promises to satisfy your cravings while keeping the calorie count in check. Serve it warm for a delightful yet wholesome meal that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Eggs
4 (beaten)
Cottage Cheese
1 lb (none)
Grated Romano Cheese
1 cup (none)
Chopped Fresh Parsley
1/2 cup (chopped)
Cooked Elbow Macaroni
4 cups (cooked)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are well combined and frothy.
3
Add the cottage cheese, grated Romano cheese, and chopped parsley to the beaten eggs. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4
Fold in the cooked elbow macaroni gently, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese and egg mixture.
5
Generously grease an 8" x 12" Pyrex baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
6
Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 5 minutes to allow the cheese sauce to thicken slightly.
9
Season with freshly ground pepper to taste before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cottage Cheese Macaroni Pie?
It is a healthier version of baked macaroni and cheese featuring cottage cheese and Romano.
What ingredients are required?
The main ingredients are eggs, cottage cheese, Romano cheese, fresh parsley, and cooked elbow macaroni.
How many eggs are used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 4 eggs that are beaten until frothy.
What type of cottage cheese is needed?
Use 1 lb of cottage cheese for this recipe for a creamy texture.
Can I use a different cheese than Romano?
Yes, you can substitute Romano with grated Parmesan or Pecorino.
How much parsley should I add?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of fresh, chopped parsley.
Should the macaroni be cooked before mixing?
Yes, you need to use 4 cups of already cooked elbow macaroni.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or 163 degrees Celsius.
How long should the macaroni pie bake?
Bake the pie for 1 hour or until the top is golden and a knife comes out clean.
What size baking dish is recommended?
An 8-inch by 12-inch Pyrex baking dish is the recommended size.
Is this macaroni pie recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly according to the listed ingredients.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, other small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini can be used.
How do I check if the pie is finished baking?
A knife inserted into the center should come out clean when the pie is fully cooked.
Why is a cooling time necessary?
Letting the pie cool for 5 minutes allows the cheese sauce to thicken and set.
When should I add the pepper?
Season with freshly ground pepper to taste just before serving.
Is this considered a low-calorie meal?
Yes, it is designed to be a lighter, lower-calorie version of traditional baked macaroni.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mixture and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this macaroni pie?
Yes, it can be frozen after it has been fully baked and cooled.
What side dishes go well with this?
A light garden salad or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this savory pie.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Is Romano cheese essential for the flavor?
Romano provides a specific sharp flavor, but other hard cheeses can provide a similar effect.
Do I need to grease the baking pan?
Yes, generously grease the dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe typically provides enough for 6 to 8 servings.
Is this dish suitable for children?
Yes, it is a mild and comforting cheesy pasta dish that is generally kid-friendly.
Does the cottage cheese melt completely?
The cottage cheese softens and incorporates into the egg mixture to create a creamy binder.
Can I add extra protein to this recipe?
Yes, you can fold in cooked bacon, ham, or chicken if desired.
Can the recipe be doubled easily?
Yes, but ensure you use a larger baking dish or two separate 8-by-12 pans.
What is the final texture of the macaroni pie?
It is savory and rich with a slightly firm, custard-like set texture.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to maintain texture or use a microwave.